Should a Student Adopt a Child?

As a college student with a passion for foster care and adoption, I have asked myself about the potential of adopting/fostering while still a student. If the desire is there, what else is missing?

Among the key elements to remember about fostering children and youth in general is the attention to the details of their lives that make such a huge impact on them, especially in such a sensitive transitional phase. This is the time in children’s lives that the small and simple things can make a significant impact on them, their behaviors, and how they view relationships and the world. Setting a good example for them and putting them first, while also showing them good attributes as a caretaker and dedicated student could prove to be a difficult task. So if you are a student and you are contemplating foster care/adoption and have a love and passion for this calling in life, this could be exactly right for you. These children are easily influenced, and who better to influence than someone who can relate to their lives?

There are many positives and negatives making a choice like this. It is not a choice that should be made lightly. This is a big deal, and potentially lifelong.

The technicalities differ from state to state, but generally speaking, the qualifications for foster care and adoption, are that:

-You must be at least 21 years or older

-Have a steady income that can cover the child’s expenses

-Provide the child with his or her own room

-Pass home inspections

These and others are what you need to be a foster parent. It takes work, but these children need love more than we need to protect our hearts. If you are wondering if adoption is right for your future, research the area where you live, look at your living situation, work schedule, school system, and local foster care agencies. This could be one of the best decisions you will ever make.

Rebekah Lewis is currently a college student studying social work and sociology. She wants to be a voice for foster kids, as well as a child abuse victims advocate. She is a co-founder of a non profit organization designed to prevent abuse in the rising generation. She loves to write, hike, and throw random dance parties.

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